Chin implant
Chin implant surgery to increase the projection of an under-projected chin and balance the facial profile using standard implants or personalised 3D prostheses, following an individual assessment of bone structure and facial proportions.
WHAT IS A CHIN IMPLANT?
A chin implant is a facial surgery technique used to increase or redefine chin projection by placing a prosthesis over the underlying bone. The aim is not simply to “make the chin larger”, but to adjust its projection, width or contour in a controlled way so that it is better balanced with the nose, lips, jaw and neck.
The procedure can be carried out using preformed implants or, in selected cases, personalised implants designed with 3D digital planning. The choice depends on the patient’s anatomy, the correction required and the intended outcome.
It is important to distinguish an under-projected chin from a retruded jaw as a whole. Where there is a more significant skeletal discrepancy, malocclusion or imbalance between the upper and lower jaws, a chin implant may not be sufficient on its own and it may be necessary to consider bony genioplasty or orthognathic surgery.
At Face Clinic, treatment is planned after a full facial assessment. The indication is based on bone structure, occlusion, profile and the patient’s goals rather than applying the same volume or implant design to every case.
WHEN TO CONSIDER A CHIN IMPLANT
An under-projected chin can alter the overall profile, make the nose appear relatively more prominent or visually shorten the chin-to-neck line. The indication for an implant should be confirmed after identifying the cause of the imbalance and ruling out problems that require a different skeletal correction.
When the chin sits behind the rest of the profile and a structural increase in projection is required.
When the relationship between the nose, lips and chin makes the lower third of the face appear insufficiently defined.
In selected cases, a personalised implant may help compensate for differences in volume or shape between the two sides.
It may be considered when a longer-lasting structural change is preferred to the effect of resorbable fillers.
Increasing projection may improve the appearance of the cervicomental angle, although it does not replace treatment for submental fat or skin laxity when these are the main cause.
If there is mandibular retrusion, a bite problem or a significant skeletal discrepancy, bony genioplasty or orthognathic surgery may be more appropriate.
TYPES OF CHIN IMPLANT AT FACE CLINIC
Not all chin implants are the same. The choice depends on the amount of projection required, bone shape, symmetry, the desired lateral extension and the complexity of the case.
At Face Clinic, options may include standard medical-grade silicone implants and personalised 3D-designed prostheses made from materials such as PEEK or titanium, depending on the surgical indication.
Material and design are not selected in isolation: they form part of a plan that considers anatomy, placement technique, stability and procedure-specific risks.
Standard silicone implant
A preformed prosthesis available in different sizes and configurations. It may be suitable when the anatomy allows a relatively straightforward and symmetrical correction.
Discuss my casePersonalised PEEK implant
A prosthesis designed around the patient’s anatomy to tailor shape, extension and projection more precisely. It is particularly considered when a case requires a specific design.
View 3D facial implantsPersonalised titanium implant
Another option for creating an individualised prosthesis using digital planning. Its indication depends on the anatomy and the surgeon’s clinical judgement.
Request an assessmentWhen an implant is not the best option
If the problem involves the position of the chin bone itself, the whole jaw or the bite, an advancement genioplasty or orthognathic surgery may be more appropriate.
View genioplastyHOW CHIN IMPLANT SURGERY IS PERFORMED
Chin implant surgery begins well before the operating theatre. The outcome depends on a correct diagnosis, appropriate technique selection and precise planning of the implant’s shape and position. Operating time, anaesthesia and recovery can vary according to the type of prosthesis and whether other procedures are performed at the same time.
Facial proportions, chin projection, jaw position, nose, lips and, when relevant, the bite are assessed to determine whether an implant is genuinely the most appropriate option.
In selected cases, imaging and digital planning are used to design a personalised 3D prosthesis adapted to the bony contour and treatment objective.
Access may be intraoral or through a submental incision, depending on the case and chosen technique. The implant is positioned over the bone and its stability and symmetry are checked.
Swelling and a feeling of tightness are common during the first few days. Specific aftercare, hygiene measures, medication when required and temporary activity restrictions are advised.
The change in profile may be visible early on, but the result should be assessed progressively as swelling subsides and the tissues adapt to the new contour.
Dr Francisco Riba explains the planning and personalisation approach used for 3D facial prostheses.
CHIN IMPLANT BEFORE AND AFTER
The results of a chin implant depend on the starting anatomy, the degree of projection required and the type of prosthesis used. These clinical cases show different corrections of the chin and lower third of the face following individual assessment and planning. Individual outcomes may vary.
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Correction of asymmetric chin retrusion using personalised planning and implant design.
Profile change after surgery aimed at improving projection and the proportions of the lower third of the face.
Clinical case in which structural facial correction improves the relationship between the chin, jaw and overall profile.
Greater chin definition and projection while maintaining proportion with the rest of the facial structures.
Treatment of the lower third of the face to improve continuity between chin projection and the jawline.
Improved forward chin projection and its relationship with the facial profile.
Profile change after increasing chin projection with a facial implant.
Clinical case with reduced projection of the lower third of the face and subsequent treatment outcome.
Outcome in a patient with reduced lower-face projection following individually planned treatment.
